E26 vs E27: Key Differences and Choosing the Right Bulb For Home

E26 and E27 bulbs both serve homes worldwide, yet they differ in size, voltage requirements, and where they work best. E26 bulbs feature a 26mm screw base built for 110V-120V systems in North America. E27 bulbs carry a 27mm base designed for 220V-240V systems across Europe, Asia, and Oceania.

That single millimetre matters more than you might think. Using the wrong bulb can lead to quick burnout, dim lighting, or even safety risks. An E26 bulb in an E27 socket faces voltage overload. An E27 bulb in an E26 socket glows weakly, wasting energy.

This guide walks you through the specifications, voltage compatibility, safety features, and regional standards of both bulbs. You'll learn which bulb suits your home and how to make the right choice when installing fixtures like IndochinaLight pendant lights. By the end, you'll feel confident selecting and using the correct bulb for your space.

What Are E26 and E27 Bulbs?

E26 and E27 bulbs belong to the Edison Screw (ES) base family, a design Thomas Edison patented in the 1880s. Both use a screw-in mechanism that makes installation and replacement straightforward.

These bulbs serve different regions based on local voltage and socket specifications. Knowing which one fits your system helps you avoid compatibility issues and keeps your lighting safe..

Thomas Edison: The man who lit up the world with the incandescent bulb

E26 Bulb

An E26 bulb carries an Edison Screw base measuring 26mm in diameter. North American homes rely on this standard for most household fixtures and lighting applications. The design fits standard sockets and works seamlessly with 110V-120V electrical systems.

E26 light bulb

E27 Bulb

An E27 bulb features an Edison Screw base measuring 27mm in diameter. Europe, Asia, and other regions use this slightly larger size as their standard. The bulb fits fixtures designed for E27 sockets and operates within electrical systems rated for 220V to 240V.

E27 light bulb

What are the differences between E26 and E27 bulbs?

E26 and E27 bulbs differ in size, voltage ratings, safety features, and regional use. The 1mm size difference seems minor, but the voltage gap creates the real distinction:

120V AC for E26 (widely used in North America)
240V AC for E27 (widely used internationally)

These differences shape how the bulbs perform and where they belong:

Aspect	E26 Bulb	E27 Bulb
Voltage	110V-120V AC	220V-240V AC
Base Diameter	26 mm (1.024 in / 2.6 cm)	27 mm (1.063 in / 2.7 cm)
Standard Region	North America, Japan, Taiwan, parts of South America	Europe, Asia, Oceania, Middle East, Africa
Insulator Height	3.25 mm (0.128 in / 0.325 cm)	5.0 mm (0.197 in / 0.5 cm)
Screw Length	Minimum 19.56 mm (0.770 in / 1.956 cm)	Minimum 22.0 mm (0.866 in / 2.2 cm)
Safety for High Voltage	Designed for low voltage	Enhanced safety features for high voltage
Interchangeability	Mechanically fits E27 sockets	Mechanically fits E26 sockets
Best Used For	120V household lighting in North America	240V household lighting in Europe, Asia, Oceania

Key difference between E26 and E27 light bulbs is the diameter

Let's examine the key differences in detail – from size variations to voltage compatibility, safety features, and regional standards:

Size and Thread Differences

E26 and E27 bases follow IEC safety standards with minimal size variations. Both share similar screw specifications that make them nearly identical at first glance:

Diameter: E26 has a maximum of 26.41mm, E27 a maximum of 26.45mm (only 0.04mm difference).
Thread Pitch: 3.629mm for both.
Screw Length: E26 is 19.56mm, E27 is 22mm, with E27's longer screw improving alignment for high-voltage use.

The insulator cap height creates the main distinction. E26 stands at 3.25mm, E27 rises to 5.0mm. This greater separation protects against electrical hazards in 240V systems. E27's live contact pad also narrows slightly, creating a more secure electrical connection.

These features make E27 safer for high-voltage use. E26 works fine for lower voltages. Both bases fit into most sockets interchangeably, though the voltage difference matters more than the physical fit.

Specification	E26 Measurement	E27 Measurement
Minimum Base Diameter	26.05 mm (1.026 in)	26.05 mm (1.026 in)
Maximum Base Diameter	26.41 mm (1.040 in)	26.45 mm (1.041 in)
Thread Pitch	3.629 mm (0.143 in)	3.629 mm (0.143 in)
Minimum Screw Length	19.56 mm (0.770 in)	22.0 mm (0.866 in)
Insulator Cap Height	3.25 mm (0.128 in)	5.0 mm (0.197 in)
Live Contact Pad Width	9.14-11.56 mm (0.360-0.455 in)	4.8-11.5 mm (0.189-0.453 in)
Maximum Thread Trough Diameter	24.72 mm (0.973 in)	24.76 mm (0.975 in)

Minimum Screw Length differs between E26 and E27 light bulbs

Voltage Compatibility

Voltage ratings separate E26 and E27 bulbs more than any physical measurement. Each bulb matches specific electrical systems used in different parts of the world:

E26: Rated for 110V-120V AC, used in North America, and compatible with US, Canadian, and select South American systems.
E27: Rated for 220V-240V AC, used in Europe, Asia, and Oceania, and compatible with UK, EU, Australian, and most international systems.

Voltage mismatches can cause issues:

E26 bulb in E27 socket: Overloads and causes burnout or fire risks.
E27 bulb in E26 socket: Operates safely but inefficiently, resulting in dim lighting and wasted energy.

The table below shows voltage compatibility:

Scenario	E26 Bulb (120V)	E27 Bulb (240V)
In 120V Socket	✓ Correct – full brightness, safe operation	✗ Dim output – 25% brightness, safe but inefficient
In 240V Socket	✗ Dangerous – immediate burnout, fire risk, electrical hazard	✓ Correct – full brightness, safe operation
Voltage Received	110V-120V AC	220V-240V AC
Power Efficiency	100% in correct socket	100% in correct socket, 25% in wrong socket

Voltage Compatibility Difference Between E26 and E27 Bulbs

Electrical Safety

E27 bulbs include safety features designed for high-voltage environments. These features prevent short circuits, arcing, and fire risks that 240V systems can produce:

Increased Clearance: E27 bases maintain greater separation between live contact and neutral threads, reducing arc risks at 240V and preventing electrical hazards.
Longer E27 Screw (22mm): Ensures proper alignment, preventing misalignment that could cause arcing or short circuits.
Taller E27 Insulator Cap (5mm): Provides better insulation, keeping live and neutral contacts safely separated in 240V systems.
Tighter Thread Trough: The slightly wider thread (24.76mm vs 24.72mm) ensures a secure connection, protecting against moisture, debris, and heat buildup.

These features make E27 bulbs safer for high-voltage applications, while the shorter E26 insulator and looser specifications are sufficient for lower-voltage use but pose risks at higher voltages.

Safety Feature	E26 (120V)	E27 (240V)
Contact Clearance	Standard for low voltage	Increased for high voltage
Screw Length	19.56 mm (0.770 in)	22.0 mm (0.866 in)—better alignment
Insulator Height	3.25 mm (0.128 in)	5.0 mm (0.197 in)—greater separation
Thread Trough Fit	24.72 mm max (0.973 in)	24.76 mm max (0.975 in)—tighter seal
Arc Prevention	Basic protection	Enhanced protection

Electrical Safety differences between E26 and E27 bulbs

Regional Compatibility

Regional electrical standards determine which bulb base you need. The decision comes down to your local grid voltage.

E26 is used in:

North America (120V)
Japan (100V)
Taiwan (110V)
Parts of South America (110V-120V)
Philippines (220V, but some use E26)

Regional Compatibility of E26 bulbs

E27 is used in:

Europe (220V-240V)
UK (230V)
Asia (China, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam)
Oceania (Australia, New Zealand)
Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar)
Africa (most countries)

Regional Compatibility of E27 bulbs

When purchasing fixtures, ensure the bulb base matches the voltage in your region. For international purchases, select the correct bulb based on your installation location, not the country of purchase.

For example, a handcrafted rattan pendant from Vietnam comes with an E27 socket. Installing it in a US home means you need an E26 bulb rated for 120V, not the E27 bulb the fixture originally held.

Region	Standard Voltage	Required Base	Socket Type
United States	120V AC	E26	Medium Screw
Canada	120V AC	E26	Medium Screw
United Kingdom	230V AC	E27	Medium Screw
European Union	230V AC	E27	Medium Screw
Australia	230V AC	E27	Medium Screw
Japan	100V AC	E26	Medium Screw
China	220V AC	E27	Medium Screw
India	230V AC	E27	Medium Screw
UAE	220V-240V AC	E27	Medium Screw
Singapore	230V AC	E27	Medium Screw

Are E26 vs E27 Bulbs Interchangeable?

E26 and E27 bulbs fit in each other’s sockets due to similar screw dimensions, but they are electrically incompatible.

While they can be physically swapped, voltage differences make this unsafe. The problem arises when the light is turned on.

The table below compares interchangeability factors:

Aspect	E26 Bulb	E27 Bulb
What It Refers To	Bulb base type and voltage rating (120V)	Bulb base type and voltage rating (240V)
Shape	Independent of base—available in A19, BR30, PAR38, etc.	Independent of base—available in A60, GLS, globe, etc.
Base Type	Edison Screw, 26 mm diameter	Edison Screw, 27 mm diameter
Compatibility	Fits E26 sockets (120V); physically fits E27 sockets (unsafe)	Fits E27 sockets (240V); physically fits E26 sockets (inefficient)
Bulb Technology	LED, incandescent, CFL, halogen available	LED, incandescent, CFL, halogen available
Brightness and Performance	100% output in 120V; burns out immediately in 240V	100% output in 240V; 25% output in 120V
Durability and Lifespan	Normal lifespan in correct voltage; instant failure in 240V	Normal lifespan in correct voltage; safe but dim in 120V
Best Used For	North American fixtures at 120V	European, Asian, Oceanian fixtures at 240V

Never use E26 bulbs in 240V systems, even if they fit, as they will fail. Avoid using E27 bulbs in 120V systems unless you're okay with dim lighting and wasted energy.

Warnings when interchanging between E26 and E27 bulbs

For IndochinaLight pendant lights, choose bulbs based on your home's voltage, not the fixture’s origin. A Vietnamese bamboo pendant works well in U.S. homes with an E26 bulb rated for 120V.

Which One Should You Choose Between E26 and E27 Bulbs?

Choose the right bulb based on your home's voltage, not personal preference or bulb appearance.

For 120V systems (North America)

Select E26 bulbs
Ensure the bulb is rated for 110V-120V
Choose a bulb shape (A19, BR30, G25, etc.) that fits your fixture
Check your pendant fixture has an E26 socket

Choosing bulbs for the 120V systems

For 240V systems (Europe, Asia, Oceania)

Select E27 bulbs
Ensure the bulb is rated for 220V-240V
Choose a bulb shape (A60, GLS, globe, etc.) that fits your fixture
Check your pendant fixture has an E27 socket

Choosing bulbs for the 240V systems

How to Choose the Right Bulb?

Here are 5 essential steps to help you choose the right bulb for your home:

Step 1: Identify your home’s voltage (check your electrical panel or consult an electrician).
Step 2: Choose E26 for 120V or E27 for 240V.
Step 3: Pick the bulb shape that fits your fixture.
Step 4: Ensure the bulb wattage matches the fixture’s rating.
Step 5: Consider LED bulbs for energy efficiency.

5 steps to choose the right bulb

For IndochinaLight handcrafted pendants:

Most rattan, bamboo, hemp, and jute pendants work with standard bulb shapes.
Check product specs for recommended bulb types and maximum wattage.
Warm-white LED bulbs (2700K-3000K) provide beautiful, diffused light.

Frequently Asked Questions about E26 and E27 bulbs

Can I use an E27 bulb in an E26 socket?

Yes, you can, but the performance will be poor. The 1mm size difference allows an E27 bulb to fit into an E26 socket, but it will only receive 110V-120V instead of the 220V-240V it is designed for.

This results in dim, inefficient lighting, a reduced lifespan, and wasted energy. However, it is safe to use with no fire risk.

Can I use an E26 bulb in an E27 socket?

No, this is unsafe. E26 bulbs are rated for 120V and cannot handle the 240V current of an E27 socket. This could result in instant burnout, fire risk, socket damage, and other safety hazards.

What bulbs are interchangeable with E26?

E26 bulbs are interchangeable with other E26 bulbs, regardless of shape, technology, or manufacturer. Common types include:

A19 (standard bulb)
BR30/BR40 (recessed)
PAR30/PAR38 (spotlights)
G25/G30 (vanity globes)
ST19/ST64 (Edison)
Candelabra with E26 base

All technologies (LED, incandescent, CFL, halogen) are compatible, as long as the wattage matches the fixture’s limits.

Not interchangeable: E12, E17, E39, B22, GU10 bases.

What happens if I interchange E26 and E27 Bulbs?

Interchanging E26 (120V) and E27 (240V) bulbs can cause:

Instant burnout or explosion
Fire risk
Tripped circuit breaker
Voided warranty

Never use a 120V bulb in a 240V socket due to safety risks

Which Is a standard light bulb, E26 or E27?

Both E26 and E27 are standard in their respective regions:

E26 is the standard in North America (US, Canada) with 110V-120V systems, fitting most household sockets, typically with A19-shaped bulbs.
E27 is standard in Europe, Asia, the UK, and Australia, using 220V-240V systems, often with A60-shaped bulbs.

Can E26 and E27 Bulbs be used for pendant lights?

Yes, both E26 and E27 bulbs can be used in pendant lights, as long as the voltage systems match. The base type refers to the screw fitting and electrical specification, not the fixture's compatibility.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between E26 and E27 bulbs ensures both safety and proper lighting. E26 operates at 110V-120V for North American systems, while E27 is designed for 220V-240V international systems. Always match the bulb base to your home's electrical supply to avoid risks like burnout or inadequate lighting.

For IndochinaLight pendants, choose your bulb base based on your location, not the fixture’s origin. Our handwoven rattan, bamboo, and hemp pendants accommodate either E26 or E27, creating beautifully diffused light. This ensures a safe, inviting atmosphere while supporting local craftsmanship.

IndochinaLight – IndochinaHomeDecor LLC

Address: 30 N Gould St Ste. N, Sheridan, WY 82801
Phone: (+1) 307 249 0594
Email: service@indochinalight.com

Lewis Nguyen

Lewis Nguyen is the CEO & Founder of Indochina Light. With over 5 years of experience in interior design, Lewis is passionate about Vietnamese handicrafts and embraces the Wabi Sabi aesthetic in his creations.

His dedication to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design has shaped Indochina Light into a leader in the industry, offering unique, eco-friendly handcrafted pendant lights that reflect his vision for beauty in imperfection.

Back to blog